The Original Snow Village

On a magical night in 1976, as huge snowflakes fell, the concept of developing a Christmas Village began in Stillwater, Minnesota as an inspiration in recreating the same moment for others to enjoy. That year, six crudely made hand-painted ceramic houses were inventoried in Department 56 of Bachman’s Florist and became known as the original Snow Village Collection. Over time, the village was expanded to represent Main Street American from drive-in diners to movie theaters, football stadiums, mom and pop retail establishments to national franchises like Coca-Cola. Resorts, cabins and plenty of outdoor areas were also included while classic cars fill the village roads and residential homes can range from simple to ornate. Over the decades, the Snow Village Collection expanded to celebrate Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, Fourth of July and Halloween, which has its own village.